Preview — Zom-B
by Darren Shan

Zom-B is a radical new series about a zombie apocalypse, told in the first person by one of its victims. The series combines classic Shan action with a fiendishly twisting plot and hard-hitting and thought-provoking moral questions dealing with racism, abuse of power and more. This is challenging material, which will captivate existing Shan fans and bring in many new ones.Zom-B is a radical new series about a zombie apocalypse, told in the first person by one of its victims. The series combines classic Shan action with a fiendishly twisting plot and hard-hitting and thought-provoking moral questions dealing with racism, abuse of power and more. This is challenging material, which will captivate existing Shan fans and bring in many new ones. As Darren says, "It's a big, sprawling, vicious tale...a grisly piece of escapism, and a barbed look at the world in which we live. Each book in the series is short, fast-paced and bloody. A high body-count is guaranteed!"...more

Hardcover, 217 pages

Published
September 27th 2012
by Simon & Schuster
(first published January 1st 2012)

Community Reviews

For the most part I really enjoyed this book, but I think one of the main turn-offs for me was B's father. He's racist, abusive, manipulative, and an all around terrible human being. I felt like it took awhile to lead up to the massive break out zombie scenes and I wish we would have had more zombies in this book, because I was expecting more. It felt like we only got 20 pages of zombies and I WANT MORE ZOMBIES. xD I'm still looking forward to continuing on with this series, but I wasn't super iFor the most part I really enjoyed this book, but I think one of the main turn-offs for me was B's father. He's racist, abusive, manipulative, and an all around terrible human being. I felt like it took awhile to lead up to the massive break out zombie scenes and I wish we would have had more zombies in this book, because I was expecting more. It felt like we only got 20 pages of zombies and I WANT MORE ZOMBIES. xD I'm still looking forward to continuing on with this series, but I wasn't super impressed by this first book. ...more

This book had a lot of potential to be REALLY AMAZING but it wasn't that amazing. The book mostly focused on B's life and hearing about the zombie attacks elsewhere, as well as her home life and relationship with her dad. Her dad is a terrible person, and you can have a terrible person be a good character, but this was not the case. He was SUPER racist and abusive, and his racism fed into B's life in many ways. There was also less zombies than I was expecting and I was disappointed by that. TheyThis book had a lot of potential to be REALLY AMAZING but it wasn't that amazing. The book mostly focused on B's life and hearing about the zombie attacks elsewhere, as well as her home life and relationship with her dad. Her dad is a terrible person, and you can have a terrible person be a good character, but this was not the case. He was SUPER racist and abusive, and his racism fed into B's life in many ways. There was also less zombies than I was expecting and I was disappointed by that. They didn't really come into play until the last third of the book, and I think if the book had focused more on that [like the name implied] it would've been a lot better. I also felt like the book could've been longer to add more of that.The one thing I did really enjoy was the illustrations. It added a lot to the book and this book probably would've been a 1/1.5 without the ending it had [which was SO GOOD] and the illustrations. Will I read the second book? Maybe. If I'm bored enough. But I don't have a strong desire to at the moment.Update: B is a girl. Which I was unsure of even though her dad said daughter at the end. BUT NOW I KNOW THANKS TO A COMMENT and changes have been made....more

LET ME MAKE THIS PERFECTLY CLEAR. (Because I have had far too many derogatory comments on this review from too many people) This review is MY opinion and mine alone. Just because you looove this book and looove Darren Shan does not give you any right to come to my space and tell me that I am ignorant, or stupid, or wrong, or that I "just didn't understand the book." I despised this book, therefore I ranted about it. That is called MY HONEST OPINION. You're entitled to yours, are you not? Well soLET ME MAKE THIS PERFECTLY CLEAR. (Because I have had far too many derogatory comments on this review from too many people) This review is MY opinion and mine alone. Just because you looove this book and looove Darren Shan does not give you any right to come to my space and tell me that I am ignorant, or stupid, or wrong, or that I "just didn't understand the book." I despised this book, therefore I ranted about it. That is called MY HONEST OPINION. You're entitled to yours, are you not? Well so am I. And that doesn't make either of us wrong.

I find it positively disgusting that I have to consider taking this review down because people can't keep their rude ass comments to themselves. I almost did. But you know what? I shouldn't be ashamed for my opinion. But I am fucking SICK of getting snide comments on this review. People are demeaning me for rating this when I didn't read ALL of it - yet, I read 90% of it, including skimming and speed reading. The 10% I missed was the 10% that had the "big twist" in it. (view spoiler)[I KNOW B IS A GIRL, as about 14 different people have informed me in the comments. That does not make her horrendous behavior acceptable and that would NOT have changed my opinion of the book. (hide spoiler)] The other 90% was so awful and rage-inducing that I would have still ended up writing the same exact thing.

I like characters with flaws and maybe even a hint of darkness. I love antiheroes. But there is a HUGE difference between being flawed and being a complete fucking asshole. I find racism highly offensive, and I have no desire to read about it. Yes, I know it happens. I am engaged to a biracial man. But guess what? I can count the negative interactions we've had in our two years of dating on one hand, because I surround myself with people who are just as open-minded as I am. I know racism is a problem. I had a few racist friends as a teenager. But see the key word there? HAD. There's a reason they're no longer my friends. I do not tolerate bullying and racism in real life, nor do I tolerate it in fiction. If something offends me, I have EVERY right to scream that opinion from the mountaintops and to cut that something out of my life. I do not want negativity in my life, real or otherwise. So if you cannot state your opinion in a polite manner, without slinging insults at me for having my own opinion, GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. From here on out, I will be deleting any and all rude comments. That is all.

**CAUTION: MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS**

Let me just say: This synopsis is NOT the one I read. If I had read this one, I probably wouldn't have even bothered with this book. Despite it's short length, I didn't actually read all of it (like 90%). I made a valiant effort. Really, I did. But the lead character, B, was such a douchenozzle that I simply couldn't go on. I usually don't rate things I don't read all of, but I think I read enough that I can, in all fairness, rate this one star. It pissed me off THAT much.

There was absolutely NO redeeming quality in B. He didn't even have a sense of right and wrong, and his moral compass was nonexistent. Mainly because of his father, but still. He was cruel to anyone and everyone, and his attitude rubbed me the wrong way. He tried to buy beer (underage) from a gas station, then mouthed off and made fun of the Arabic guy manning the register when he denied the sale.One of the teachers made a derogatory comment about B's dad (which was actually founded in truth), so B went and slashed the guy's tires and through a brick through his window. Um?

B pretended not to be racist, but he really was. He acted like he wasn't so he wouldn't be like his dad (who was an even bigger asshole than B).B didn't like Tyler - not because he was black (so he claimed), but because B stole money from him and he told his dad - 'not keeping his mouth shut and putting up with the theft as any good victim should.' What. The. Eff. And he took a candy bar right out of a girl's hand, and thought she was wrong for getting upset about it. So not only was B a complete jackass, he was a bully, too. FABULOUS.

There was this scene where he was cruel and racist on purpose to piss of a black girl that stood up for Tyler, causing her to lose her temper and attack him. So what does B do? He punches her in the face. Wow, does that make you feel like a man? Hitting a female? Real f*cking classy, dude. (view spoiler)[I now know that it was a girl punching another girl, but that still doesn't make it any better, because of this: (hide spoiler)] Then he says, 'I feel smug, because I know Dad would be proud if he could see me now, bringing an interfering black girl down a peg or two.'

That scene was the last straw for me, I couldn't stand any more. I skimmed to page 100, hoping that there would be some sort change in him, and landed right in yet another scene where B was picking a fight with Tyler. Nope, still an asshole. So I skimmed through the last 50 pages.

Sadly, I didn't find anything better. Quite the contrary - it got worse. Whaaa? That's even possible? Yep.I spot a couple of teachers inside, chewing on the remains of their colleagues."They won't be failing you again," Dad says and we both laugh. What the hell, man. Cuz it's totally hilarious WHEN PEOPLE ARE F*CKING DYING. D-Y-I-N-G. Argh!! I wanted to throw the book at a wall.Then - THEN - the zombies are overtaking their group, so B's dad tells him to 'Throw the bloody chimney sweep' to the zombies to save themselves. WE'RE TALKING ABOUT A F*CKING PERSON HERE. And B actually did it! Seriously?! Then he blames it on his dad. Nevermind that it was HIS actions. 'He turned me into a killer. He made me throw [said person] to the zombies.' He didn't make him do anything! All he did was tell B to do it, and B did it. B's dad could have told him to jump off a cliff and he'd have done it with a smile on his face.

The realization that he was wrong did come, but only in the last several pages when it was too late. The ending was alright, I guess. He finally got what he deserved.

I felt as if this story was pointless. There was barely any zombies in the first half of the book. It was mostly high school crap, and B hanging out with his friends. There were way too many characters; they were all a giant blur of ridiculous nicknames and didn't have their own personalities, so there was no chance for attachment to any of them. I couldn't bring myself to give two shits about this story (probably mostly because I despised the main character).This was my first Darren Shan story. Would I read anything else by him? Highly doubtful.

Favorite quote:"Trust no one. Always question what you're told. Don't believe the lies that people feed you, even if they're your teachers or parents. At the end of the day you have to work out for yourself what's right or wrong."This is probably the only meaningful sentence in the entire book...and no it didn't come from B (in case you were wondering). He wasn't that deep.

GabrielUnderstood. Yes, this was hard to read, but so are many books that are NON-Fiction such as Night by Eli Weisel. The truth comes out at the end when BUnderstood. Yes, this was hard to read, but so are many books that are NON-Fiction such as Night by Eli Weisel. The truth comes out at the end when B realizes that he has been forced to be a bigot by his father and, turning to go back to the Zombie horde states "you are a bigger monster than anything inside..." Well Done B. This is the first book, and the character is supposed to be hateable, if you will.

I have respect for your opinion as the racism and abuse is not for all customers. However, I would leave it as warning to those who dare tread these waters, and not as a reason for the book to have a poor review....more
Jul 15, 2015 11:47AM

Jessi (Novel Heartbeat)Yeah, true. I definitely understand that, and I know it happens but like I said in my review I don't want anything to do with that kind of negativity.Yeah, true. I definitely understand that, and I know it happens but like I said in my review I don't want anything to do with that kind of negativity. It's just not my cup of tea!...more
Jul 15, 2015 12:22PM

After seeing the cover and liking it, I was quite enthused to read it – to read a book about zombies, Darren Shan-style, from “the master of horror.” I haven’t read any of Darren Shan’s previous works; this was my first. But I do know many, including Amber, devour and love anything he writes so I was expecting something spectacular and horrific from Zom-B. I haven’t read many zombie-centric books lately, so Zom-B was the first for a while (Andrew Fukuda’s The Hunt could count though but that’s dAfter seeing the cover and liking it, I was quite enthused to read it – to read a book about zombies, Darren Shan-style, from “the master of horror.” I haven’t read any of Darren Shan’s previous works; this was my first. But I do know many, including Amber, devour and love anything he writes so I was expecting something spectacular and horrific from Zom-B. I haven’t read many zombie-centric books lately, so Zom-B was the first for a while (Andrew Fukuda’s The Hunt could count though but that’s different). I had expectations for Zom-B because of others’ reactions like Amber’s; I expected a bit too much, I guess. After 200 pages – I’ll admit Zom-B is a fast read with few illustrations to add to the graphicness of it – I left with nothing, besides memories of zombies shoving brains down their throats and of a boy who became just like the father he loathes (view spoiler)[whom we learn later is on actually a girl (hide spoiler)]. The zombies shoving brains down their throats was the only good thing.

I was pulled into Zom-B by the… uh… prologue you could say – the “Then…” – as we were introduced to a character that seems to be important later on down the track and we see zombies and a young boy, Brian, struggling with what he is seeing. Then we get to B's story. For the first chapter I liked B – we learn about his parents and see zombies on the news and witness a debate between his parents whether what they’re seeing is real or CGI or something else. I liked B for the fact that towards the end of that chapter he prepares to protect his mother from his father, showing a strong trait in our protagonist. And then the book continued and his character went downhill for me – I liked him less and less, consequently putting distance between myself and the book. I felt nothing worthwhile came from it because of that. (view spoiler)[I say he because until there was the "big" gender reveal and hoopla that B was actually a girl called Becky, I had thought she was a he, but even then that reveal/discovery still didn't change the way I saw B. (hide spoiler)]

A few incidents occur in the book which made me label B as a bully, and with this bullying came racist comments and slurs and loads of bigotry. Although racism is realistic in our world and occurs in those ages too, I thought it was not needed and Darren Shan could have written those scenes differently. (I have nothing against it; I just thought it was stupid.) I suppose, however, that it showed us what influence poor role models and parents can play on children’s behaviours and attitudes – B got it all from his father. But then again you go back to the beginning where B has a disliking for his dad. And then at the end B listens to his dad and does such a terrible act – oh no! – and becomes his dad, and then spends some time brooding what he has done. I found B’s character inconsistent and there was a decline in the character's likability and maturity. Others would call it a flaw; to me, it’s a flaw that’s too major to seem minor. However, there is a moment past halfway that the aforementioned trait came out again; would’ve liked that to come forward at the end, too.

Darren Shan’s writing voice and “plot” may have deepened the ravine and furthered the distance between myself and the book. If anything, Zom-B is for the lower ages of Young Adult, more to the point where it’s called high Middle Grade. It felt juvenile for what I was expecting from a YA zombie book, especially when the cover has “the master of horror” on the front. I found the story in this book was nothing spectacular, but it is the first of a twelve-book series so Zom-B was an introduction if anything. Nothing surprised me and I won’t be returning for the next eleven books. I may just retreat to Charlie Higson’s The Enemy books or Jonathan Maberry’s Benny Imura series – now they’re fantastic (even if I have yet to read them, hence why I say “retreat”) YA zombie books, with much more to them than just zombies or flesh-eating beings. …Going back to Zom-B and disregarding the “Then…” beginning, the zombies don’t really appear until over halfway through the book.

I guess it all comes down to expectations. I will still keep Zom-B on my shelf even if the only reason to is for the awesome cover.["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>...more

Full disclosure: I'm a HUGE Darren Shan fan (and a poet, apparently). I've been a fan ever since the final book in The Saga of Darren Shan book was published and I read them all in one go. That's twelve books, people. So my review may be SLIGHTLY biased, because I love all his books.

Also, I'm not going to write an 'in-depth' review, because it'll be hard not to spoil the mind blowing twist that happens towards the end. And Darren included a note and asked people not to mention that the main charFull disclosure: I'm a HUGE Darren Shan fan (and a poet, apparently). I've been a fan ever since the final book in The Saga of Darren Shan book was published and I read them all in one go. That's twelve books, people. So my review may be SLIGHTLY biased, because I love all his books.

Also, I'm not going to write an 'in-depth' review, because it'll be hard not to spoil the mind blowing twist that happens towards the end. And Darren included a note and asked people not to mention that the main character is actually in a coma and he's dreaming the whole thing. Wait... what?

Haha, just kidding, but my previous statement still stands. I'm not going into too much detail with this review.

I think before reading this book, you should be aware that there's a lot of racism and parental abuse. B's father is extremely racist, and he's raised B to be just like him. B is slightly conflicted, but for the most part B's racist as well. It's all very uncomfortable, and I think some people will be put off by it, and understandably so. Nevertheless, it is a character flaw and it's important, so don't worry about it being there just for the sake of it.

It's VERY hard to like B. However, I do hope that as the series progresses we'll see B grow as a person.

There are two twists in this novel, the one towards the end being the most shocking. The twist/outcome of the novel at the very end wasn't expected either, and it really makes you wonder what's going to happen next because there are eleven more books to go and... yeah. But the first twist - the extremely shocking one - makes you rethink everything you've just read. I sat there blinking at the page for at least ten minutes, trying to figure out what had just been said.

Overall, this is a fantastic book. It's action packed and awesome, although there aren't as many zombies as I would have hoped. But the ending was AMAZING.

Note: Please be VERY careful when reading reviews for this book on Goodreads, as I've noticed that some people have spoiled one of the twists. Probably without meaning to, but still.

I'm reading other people's thoughts about this book and I'm looking at negative reviews. I'm just shocked at the 1 stars! Not because I loved this book, but because of the reason they rated it so low!

Everyone hates this book because B is racist! WHAT? That's the point, Darren Shan creates a story where you're supposed to HATE the "protagonist". Someone please expI will not review this. It is impossible not to give anything away.

This book is amazing, nail-biting, UNBELIEVABLE!

Read it ASAP

Update:

I'm reading other people's thoughts about this book and I'm looking at negative reviews. I'm just shocked at the 1 stars! Not because I loved this book, but because of the reason they rated it so low!

Everyone hates this book because B is racist! WHAT? That's the point, Darren Shan creates a story where you're supposed to HATE the "protagonist". Someone please explain the hate to me!...more

This is not the zombie book you are looking for. A bad Star Wars pun aside, Zom-B is just not a book I would recommend reading, even for the zombie lovers among us. The book deals with racism but not in a way that is informative or that teaches us any lessons. It’s just one slam after another on a variety of different races and with seemingly no purpose in doing so except for setting up an ending that was painfully obvious from the get go. It isn’t tackling issues, it’s putting them up on displaThis is not the zombie book you are looking for. A bad Star Wars pun aside, Zom-B is just not a book I would recommend reading, even for the zombie lovers among us. The book deals with racism but not in a way that is informative or that teaches us any lessons. It’s just one slam after another on a variety of different races and with seemingly no purpose in doing so except for setting up an ending that was painfully obvious from the get go. It isn’t tackling issues, it’s putting them up on display. The parallels of coming together as one group, as humans, to take on a force that is trying to kill us didn’t even come through which may have redeemed Zom-B.

The main character, B, is to be honest an ass. She takes the racism of her father and uses it occasionally but always backpeddling saying she was just doing it as an act, a way to impress him or that deep down she really didn’t feel that way. If you say or do some of the things she does in the book then I’m sorry but you are just as guilty and a coward for being unable to admit it. Ugh. She’s whiny, and while she has to deal with a lot of crap in her life to be sure it doesn’t make the character any more endearing. I’m not saying you have to like all MCs to consider a book good, but this one just didn’t have redeeming qualities.

The plot was obvious and simplistic. There wasn’t really any build up either, just one minute “oh there are zombies elsewhere, probably a hoax” and the next zombies all over the freaking place. It didn’t feel like a smooth transition and regardless of whatever they reveal in the next book I can’t imagine it justifying how this one was carried out. The pacing was erratic and at times frantic as well without giving depth to much of anything.

The writing was fine I guess in and of itself, but nothing was saving this book for me. I really was disappointed as I love me a good zombie book (The Infects by Sean Beaudoin was one of my top 5 books in 2012) and sadly this fell short to say the least. It’s a pass for me.

I don't really know how to start this review because I don't really have any strong feelings about this book. It was so mediocre and so average I didn't really have much to say about it. It was a little dull but it wasn't necessary boring. Most of the characters were okay but I cannot say I really cared whether they lived or died, they were all too bland to form opinions on. Obviously I had problems with B's dad though. How could I not? He was a monster.

While I enjoyed Zom-B, I felt it was a liI don't really know how to start this review because I don't really have any strong feelings about this book. It was so mediocre and so average I didn't really have much to say about it. It was a little dull but it wasn't necessary boring. Most of the characters were okay but I cannot say I really cared whether they lived or died, they were all too bland to form opinions on. Obviously I had problems with B's dad though. How could I not? He was a monster.

While I enjoyed Zom-B, I felt it was a little slow and a little jumpy. I will probably continue the series but I am not exactly thrilled for it. A mixed and pointless review I know... I apologise. I am too tired to write anything else. *sheepish grin*...more

Zom-B is a new series from author Darren Shan. I have been a big fan of Shan's work since his Cirque Du Freak Series (The Vampire's Assisstant) and so far Zom-B does not disappoint. At first I though that the story was going to be all about the zombie apocalypse but it turned out that it is also about the real horrors that we face in the everyday world. The protagonist is a teenager named B who lives in London. B likes hanging out with friends, listening to music and getting into trouble. The zoZom-B is a new series from author Darren Shan. I have been a big fan of Shan's work since his Cirque Du Freak Series (The Vampire's Assisstant) and so far Zom-B does not disappoint. At first I though that the story was going to be all about the zombie apocalypse but it turned out that it is also about the real horrors that we face in the everyday world. The protagonist is a teenager named B who lives in London. B likes hanging out with friends, listening to music and getting into trouble. The zombie attacks begin in Ireland and everyone thinks that there are some sort of publicity stunt created by the media. Besides, B has other thinks to be concerned about. B's father is a racist and an abusive drunk who beats on his family when they disagree with his opinions. B has found that life is easier if you just don't argue with you father. B often despises the actions of the man who is the head of the family but still can't help but love and defend him when teachers and friends challenge his behavior. Can B stand up to a racist father or will B begin to turn into an abusive racist? Get ready for some truly shocking twists and turns as the story progresses. Will B save the community or fall victim to the army of the undead that are threatening the land? This book will appeal to male readers because of the subject matter but it should appeal to anyone who is looking for a heart-pounding good read! Read Zom-B by Darren Shan. I couldn't put it down and I am now eager to devour the next installment....more

Can we talk about how misleading the prologue is? Man, I thought this book was going to be chock FULL of zombie beheadings. Double tap! But no, it was more about this teenage boy, B, and his own metaphorical zombie life. Okay, later on in the book, there are REAL zombies, and throughout the book, there are more and more news stories about the zombie plague making its way around the world.

B is a bully raised by a bully. I don’t think that it is right that he bullies others, nor do I wish to justiCan we talk about how misleading the prologue is? Man, I thought this book was going to be chock FULL of zombie beheadings. Double tap! But no, it was more about this teenage boy, B, and his own metaphorical zombie life. Okay, later on in the book, there are REAL zombies, and throughout the book, there are more and more news stories about the zombie plague making its way around the world.

B is a bully raised by a bully. I don’t think that it is right that he bullies others, nor do I wish to justify it. He’s got this insane, racist dad who puts these ideas in his head, ideas he doesn’t agree with, and at the worst possible times, B spits them out on others. He knows they’re wrong. He doesn’t know how truly wrong they are until he finds out that there are more and more people like his dad, who are looking for a new wave of Crazy People Ruling the Earth and Killing All the Others. You know, the people who should’ve been thrown into evil baby orphanages.

Zom-B TL;DR – This book is very very different from the prologue. Very different. There’s a bit of conspiracy theory, racist characters, awesome characters, and some terrifying zombies....more

Recommends it for: People who like books that don't involve zombies till half way through.

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
click here.This book was a freaking whirlwind of insane zombie activity. Now I have to admit the beginning of the book got me really started. But then it got kind of boring. The life and story of B, a week before the zombie attacks actually occur in London. Is it weird, that I think that this book is refreshing in the sense that it's different from other zombie books, because of the racism? I mean, you don't get that many people who like writing about racism like this. If you haven't read Warm Bodies pleasThis book was a freaking whirlwind of insane zombie activity. Now I have to admit the beginning of the book got me really started. But then it got kind of boring. The life and story of B, a week before the zombie attacks actually occur in London. Is it weird, that I think that this book is refreshing in the sense that it's different from other zombie books, because of the racism? I mean, you don't get that many people who like writing about racism like this. If you haven't read Warm Bodies please read that before reading this book. I think that book is more for a girl than this gore-feast book. Even though I felt like the details weren't all there, unlike Ashes, by Ilsa Bick, which is going to remain on the top of my favorite zombie books of all time.

And the weird thing? It ends up that B isn't a boy all that. (Even though I'm starting to think that B is just a short letter for butch. Yeah, a butch girl who shaves her head). I'm not sure if I'm going to read any more of this series, because honestly, this one was such a disappointment. Like what the heck is going on when B gets a sex change from a boy to a girl? I don't get it. *Shakes my head.* Well I guess I have other books on my list to read. ...more

I saw "Zom-B" at my library and I instantly loved the title and the cover. Even though the book is pretty short (only 174 pages) I could not bring myself to read the entire thing. Not only were there little to NO zombies the main characters were so racist I hoped zombies stormed their house, drug them to Africa or India or China and then slowly devoured their internal organs, in front of the natives. I actually threw the book (on my couch) when B (our main character) started making gorilla noiseI saw "Zom-B" at my library and I instantly loved the title and the cover. Even though the book is pretty short (only 174 pages) I could not bring myself to read the entire thing. Not only were there little to NO zombies the main characters were so racist I hoped zombies stormed their house, drug them to Africa or India or China and then slowly devoured their internal organs, in front of the natives. I actually threw the book (on my couch) when B (our main character) started making gorilla noises at his black schoolmates. Then he turns around and starts this entire inner-monologue about how he know it's wrong but that's what will make his dad PROUD! I read that part and instantly jumped to the end, just hoping he got what he deserved. I wasn't let down....more

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
click here.OH. MY. GOD. I feel safe in saying that this book gave me one of the biggest shocks in my reading life. WOW. Did not see that coming.

The book as a whole was pretty good, although it was almost halfway through before I started getting into it. I like that this book will make kids think about racism, but I think some might start reading and think, "wtf? I thought this was supposed to be about zombies..."

The most important thing, though, is that it left me wanting to know what happens next.

After finishing, the Demonata, his second long-running series back in 2009, Darren Shan seems to have been in a bit of a rut for the past couple of years. The Saga of Larten Crepsley seemed, in my opinion, to be a rehash of old stories, entertaining enough but nothing original: an unnecessary addition to a bygone era. I was similarly disappointed with the thin executioner, though for different reasons. Zom-B, however, seems to represent Darren Shan's return to form.

I approached this book with trAfter finishing, the Demonata, his second long-running series back in 2009, Darren Shan seems to have been in a bit of a rut for the past couple of years. The Saga of Larten Crepsley seemed, in my opinion, to be a rehash of old stories, entertaining enough but nothing original: an unnecessary addition to a bygone era. I was similarly disappointed with the thin executioner, though for different reasons. Zom-B, however, seems to represent Darren Shan's return to form.

I approached this book with trepidation. I had high hopes for it but was at the same time greatly afraid of a let-down. The cover and title seemed somewhat cheesy, giving me the impression the book would end up being rather juvenile. When I heard the book had pictures in it too, I thought all hope was lost.

Then I heard that Darren was attempting to tackle issues such as racism and my interest was again piqued. I was curious to see how he would handle this. It was a few years ago that I read the Demonata and the first Saga, so I don't really remember if those books were at all message-laden, though I think not. Certainly not to the extent that Zom-B is.

Though my trepidation remained (I still feared this would be too juvenile for my liking) I was interested and hopeful enough to go ahead and buy the book.

Zom-B is an easy read, as are most of Darren Shan's books. I got through it in a single evening, and was pleasantly surprised. It was fast paced, fun, and, in true Shan fashion, gory. Darren handled the themes of racism well, posing a lot of moral questions. Most decent people would think that the answers to these questions are obvious, yet Darren portrays some appalling characters who defy reason in their beliefs. It is sad to think that there really are people in the world who think as B's dad does. As well as racism, Darren also brings family dynamics into the mix, questioning when it is appropriate to follow one's parents or when one should stand up for their own beliefs. It actually quite impressed me how much Darren managed to pack into a book that only took me only three hours to complete. His writing in Zom-B is much more mature than I've seen in the past.

B Smith is one of the best characters Shan's written. B is a character who managed to provoke a lot of emotions from me, most of which were polar opposites. I could go from loving B on one page to hating him the next; go from admiring him to being appalled by him; go from pitying him to resenting him. B also managed to surprise me at a few points(wait until you find out what 'B' stands for!), though I think most shocking is one scene in particular where B does something that brings to a head the moral struggles he's been experiencing. You'll know what I'm talking about when you read it.

Another character I found interesting, one who only appeared twice in the book, was Owl Man. His identity is never truly explained (we can assume that will come in later books) but it seems likely that he is to be the central villain in this series. Darren Shan has a history of writing intriguing and creepy villains, Lord Loss and Mr. Tiny being two of his best, and Owl Man looks like he has potential for greatness. I look forward to learning about the nature of his identity, as well as seeing his true motives.

One thing Darren Shan does well is taking an old idea and putting a new spin on it. In the Saga of Darren Shan, the author took vampires, creatures that have appeared in countless books and films throughout the years, most of the time sticking to the Dracula archetype, and completely reinvented them (without making them sparkle, I might add...). He did the same with demons, in the Demonata, taking these beaten-to-death ideas and reinventing them with originality. I initially treated Darren's approach to zombies with cautious interest, much as I did the book as a whole. Zombies, of course, are not a new idea. But then again, neither were vampires or demons so I was fairly optimistic. For the most part it seems as though Darren has done a good job, and though we'll have to wait for later books to know for sure, it looks like he's done well to add some new originality to an old idea.

The biggest problem I had with this book--pretty much the only one--were the illustrations. As I said, I was wary about them from the start, and it seems my concerns were warranted. In my opinion, illustrations, particularly the black and white comic-book kind we find in Zom-B, are best left for children's books, not ones aimed at teenagers. With books for young kids, pictures serve as a way to keep children focused on the book in their hands and assist with bringing the book to life. Older kids and teenagers, however, are usually at a reading level where they don't need pictures to visualize. They can manage that on their own. I didn't think a book such as Zom-B warranted the illustrations it was given. This is just my personal preference. I know a lot of people loved the illustrations. But I felt they were unnecessary and interrupted what was otherwise a fast-paced page turner.

All in all, Zom-B is definitely the best book Darran Shan has released since Hell's Heroes, and the start of what I hope will be another great series. Zom-B reinforced my opinion that Shan is better at writing long-running series, rather than the shorter ones and one-offs he's been coming out with lately. Despite a cheesy looking title and cover and some misplaced illustrations, Darren has provided an entertaining read that manages to pack some intriguing characters and tough moral questions into just two-hundred pages. Well worth reading for both old fans of Darren Shan, as well as anyone new to the author. ...more

Zom-B!Look at that name, and that cover!Cool!But look at the name beneath the title!COOLIO! Another Darren Shan Series!

Straight into the book- Gripping, terrifying, gory, Zombastic. Dot.

Then... I believe its safe to say that a city will be totally wiped out by the Zombies in the prologue, people die, people turn, people eat brains - But the sad news is - The world won't believe it when they see it on the Telly, atleast B Smith's family won't.

B Smith is our brand new state-of-the-art protagonist.Zom-B!Look at that name, and that cover!Cool!But look at the name beneath the title!COOLIO! Another Darren Shan Series!

Straight into the book- Gripping, terrifying, gory, Zombastic. Dot.

Then... I believe its safe to say that a city will be totally wiped out by the Zombies in the prologue, people die, people turn, people eat brains - But the sad news is - The world won't believe it when they see it on the Telly, atleast B Smith's family won't.

B Smith is our brand new state-of-the-art protagonist. B's dad (he's white), a bully and a racist. He loves to beat up B's mother whenever they question him and B runs in to the rescue. B doesn't want ro be a racist like father, but B wants his love. So, since it is the only way, life goes on.

B hangs out with a bunch of guys and girls, most of them are incorrigible brats. This shows how exactly (most of the, yes, MOST of the) teens behave these days... Cocky, Over-Confident, disrespectful.

They do all sort of weird things. All mentioned in the book - I'll leave that to you! They go to school, they don't take their classes seriously...blah..blah..blah.

So, B's fave teacher is Mr. Burke. He asks them questions regarding the Zombie invasion(?), does anyone believe in it? Many awesome theories. He talks about racism, and with many quotes in his arsenal, he doesn't forget to make an impact.So.. Darren Shan has come upon this subject. This very, delicate substance called RACISM. Which has a "Handle with Care" sign pasted over it a thousand times. Its a tricky thing to write about. What if the messages lead the readers in a wrong way? No. Darren Shan, according to me, knows what he's upto. I got a clear picture of racism and its cruelness in this book. He blends in fiction and fact. He uses Zombies as a tool to warn the youngsters of the dangers and ill effects of racism.

But B wants out. B does it only because it buys the affection of Mr. Smith. B does it to be considered a good kid by the Headmistress. B doesn't want to be a monster like Mr. Smith. But... "How could you hate your own father?"

There are instances when B helps non-white people, B acts on instinct. B's mind isn't racist. But once the deed is done, B regrets it because that if ever father got to know this, he would be disappointed. Very disappointed.

And then comes the big one. Fact - the stuff we came through - meets Darren Shan Kinda Action Packed Fiction.

It begins one fine day at the school. ZOMBIES!!!

THEY DO WHAT THEY DO BEST-

CRACK SKULLS!

EAT BRAINS!

TURN PEOPLE INTO THE UNDEAD!

The story is fast paced - Gripping, as I've mentioned before, after the Zombies attack. A fresh class of horror. Never before seen in either "Cirque Du Freak" or in "The Demonata" (They say that there might never be a movie based on The Demonata :( - Well, here's the news, Then they'll NEVER make movies based on this series :( , mommy, that's so sad!!!)

Darren Shan nosedives deep into the action. Killing off characters faster than ever. As he said "A high body count is guarenteed" he meant it, and this is the living proof. The horror induced by this part is, well, Zombazing... (view spoiler)[ Just imagine yourself scooping out the brains outta your bestie's head and jamming it into your mouth or vice versa - Yeah, thats the feeling) (hide spoiler)]

Now that the zombies are in, some serious racist stuff is induced into the survival scenario. Stuff that makes you really hate some characters or feel for some of them. B gangs up with a bunch of survivors and tries to escape, Body. Body. Body. Zombie. Zombie. Body. Body. Zombie... The list goes on.

And there is a ZOMBDERFUL Plot twist (more like a revelation) that made me bang my head on the wall!#facewallZOMBTASTIC thinking Darren Shan, you reaaaaallllly got me there. ;) Seriously, after that twist, it took me a few minutes to get my brains back and start reading.

And the book ends with a ZOMBSOME Cliffhanger. With a promise of more brains in book two.

---ZAB-SAH-LOOT-LEE ZOVEDZIT!

---Info: Darren Shan has announced that this is going to be a twelve short book series. Each with a cliffhanger and lots of blood and gore. The books are being released at a rate of one per every three months.===========Choose Blood.Choose Brains.Choose Zom-B.["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>...more

B is a high school kid who lives in London with a racist, abusive alcoholic father, and a mom who doesn't stand up for herself. B hangs out with a tough group of friends, and has gotten a bit of a reputation.

When the zombie attacks that happened in Ireland (which B and family did not believe were real) come breaking through the front door of B's high school, race and reputation don't mean much. After all, zombies don't notice skin color when digging through someone's skull to devour their brainB is a high school kid who lives in London with a racist, abusive alcoholic father, and a mom who doesn't stand up for herself. B hangs out with a tough group of friends, and has gotten a bit of a reputation.

When the zombie attacks that happened in Ireland (which B and family did not believe were real) come breaking through the front door of B's high school, race and reputation don't mean much. After all, zombies don't notice skin color when digging through someone's skull to devour their brains.

Well, I never had trouble getting into this book, but I will admit it had a slow start. Besides the prologue, it took more than half the book for zombie action to even happen. But once it did, HOLY CRAP.

The entire first half of the book was basically showing the foundation of B's dysfunctional family. The father, Todd, is an extreme racist who believes England should be whites-only. Todd drinks too much and takes his frustrations out on his wife, until B gets between them.

Yet in spite of this abuse, B has a sick desire to please Todd. B regularly bullies a black kid named Tyler, and picks fights for no reason. Even though B knows it's wrong, the urge to make Todd proud is a strong one.

So, then zombies attack at B's school one day. I must say, this was a zombie novel done right. Blood and gore are not spared in the narrative, and it's awesome. The undead hordes quickly consume kids in their path, using sharp nails to drill through skulls like plywood. B and friends form a large group to try to find some escape, but their numbers start dropping quickly. Imagine B's surprise when one of the strongest, most level headed members is a black boy.

As I said, the first half of the book was slow, but the GIANT twist at the end and the explosive final page, combined with an abundance of zombie gore, more than made up for it in my opinion....more

I haven't read any Darren Shan in about a year. But he's basically my favorite author. This book reminded me of that.

Somehow Shan mixes good horror and good psychologically significant characters as well. The main character, B, really illustrates what it's like to live in an abusive family with an offensively racist father. Seriously, it's totally offensive and upset me. B also illustrates what it's like from the psychological perspective of a bully (not that I condone it, but it woulWhat. WHAT.

I haven't read any Darren Shan in about a year. But he's basically my favorite author. This book reminded me of that.

Somehow Shan mixes good horror and good psychologically significant characters as well. The main character, B, really illustrates what it's like to live in an abusive family with an offensively racist father. Seriously, it's totally offensive and upset me. B also illustrates what it's like from the psychological perspective of a bully (not that I condone it, but it would be beneficial to learn about why they do what they do).

If you read this, which you should, expect the plot twist of the century and a ridiculous cliffhanger....more

Darren Shan does it again. He takes one piece of horror history and while somehow maintaining the dignity and most rules of the original creations, puts his own spin on it to make it his own. The two twists at the end are shocking and perfect, and Shan delivers them with super amounts of finesse. I can't wait to read the other 11 of this series, and am so glad he's putting one out every three months.

I'm usually not a big fan of YA books and this is only the 3rd zombie book I've read~ but I liked it! It started a little slow, but it was such a quick read, it didn't matter. I'm really looking forward to the 2nd book in the series, and that says something about this book.

This book popped through my letter box from Lovereading4kids and is due for publication September 2014.

The first thing I loved was the cover of the book which really stands out and beckons the reader in – if they dare.

This is the first of a series of books by Darren Shan – teen horror.

It is scary, nail biting and fast paced.

Not to give too much away B is in high school and lives in London with a racist, abusive alcoholic father. His mother won’t stand up for herself. B is in with some tough friThis book popped through my letter box from Lovereading4kids and is due for publication September 2014.

The first thing I loved was the cover of the book which really stands out and beckons the reader in – if they dare.

This is the first of a series of books by Darren Shan – teen horror.

It is scary, nail biting and fast paced.

Not to give too much away B is in high school and lives in London with a racist, abusive alcoholic father. His mother won’t stand up for herself. B is in with some tough friends, and understandably has a reputation. Then the zombie attacks come through his school gates…

Shan tackles taboo subjects like racism and domestic situations warts and all and is not afraid to do so.

I’m going to start by saying I love zombie books, in fact, not just books but also movies and TV series’. Darren Shan is well known for his Cirque Du Freak series and ZOM B seems to be exploding onto the scene with books from the series showing up everywhere. It’s because of this and a little loose change to spend that I was enticed into picking up the book and giving it a go. The subject matter and eye catching cover made it stand out from the crowd and my wanting to delve into a post-apocalyptI’m going to start by saying I love zombie books, in fact, not just books but also movies and TV series’. Darren Shan is well known for his Cirque Du Freak series and ZOM B seems to be exploding onto the scene with books from the series showing up everywhere. It’s because of this and a little loose change to spend that I was enticed into picking up the book and giving it a go. The subject matter and eye catching cover made it stand out from the crowd and my wanting to delve into a post-apocalyptic, zombie infested world, ZOM B was an obvious selection.

Firstly, let me say this is a great spin on the Zombie story and isn’t just a zombie hack and slash. To begin with the book sets the scene with a small village being overrun and violently attacked by the undead, after this action packed and shocking beginning Shan introduces the main protagonist B. B is a racist, and is not ashamed to hide it. It’s hard to like B for this reason but as the book progresses and develops so does B’s character who you learn comes from a violent home, B’s father is a violent and racist thug. It’s a slow build up, yet it is required in order to build the suspense and also help the reader fully understand the character. Snippets of news stories and discussions regarding conspiracy theories had me gripped, expecting the outbreak to happen from one page to the next. The book also explores some moral and thought provoking themes, B’s internal confrontation regarding B’s own actions and the actions of B’s father are interesting and add more depth to the character.

When the zombie action does commence it’s in such a gore filled, relentlessly violent way that at times it had me reading mouth agape. The violence is graphic and gruesome, more than expected for what I first figured was a YA. There are twists in this book which caught me completely of guard, these twists also had me reconsidering my initial thoughts about the book. It’s a book that doesn’t follow the normal formula for zombie fiction and is quite unique in that sense, it also explores some important and sensitive topics throughout. The twists at the end and the cliff-hanger ending will definitely have me reading the next books in the series to see how B develops and also the story.

If you’re after a hack and slash zombie book, this book probably isn’t for you. I must admit that was the reason I initially bought the book but I was pleasantly surprised and the book grew on me as did the main character. For that reason I would recommend this book to anyone after a zombie story that also makes you think....more

My only prior experience with Darren Shan was the first book in the Cirque du Freak series, which we read for my Young Adult Services class in Library School. I remember mostly enjoying it, but for some potty humor kind of stuff I really could have done without. I was expecting something similar here, something for younger YA that like violence in humor. Actually, I think the gore and darker tone of this one definitely skew it up more than I was expectOriginally reviewed on A Reader of Fictions.

My only prior experience with Darren Shan was the first book in the Cirque du Freak series, which we read for my Young Adult Services class in Library School. I remember mostly enjoying it, but for some potty humor kind of stuff I really could have done without. I was expecting something similar here, something for younger YA that like violence in humor. Actually, I think the gore and darker tone of this one definitely skew it up more than I was expecting, despite its brief length.

Another thing I was not expecting: how incredibly British this book is. Seriously, I don't remember if Cirque du Freak is set in Britain, but this one's set in London. There's slang and all of that, which made for a nice change.

Our MC, B is not the typical hero. B leads a group of no-account ruffians, that frequently take sickies from school. They beat up other kids, they pass their classes because the teachers don't want to risk and attack, and they are generally awful, violent people. Expect the first hundred pages, except for the prologue, to be entirely about B's life and little gang, not zombies. If this a concern, don't worry: you'll get plenty of zombie mayhem in gore in the last 70 pages, and, presumably, in the following books.

Yet another surprise waiting for me in Zom-B were the serious themes, both of racism and of parental abuse. B's father clearly turned B into this violent creature, as he regularly beats on B and B's mother whenever displeased. Were their cards for being a racist, B's father would surely be carrying one proudly. He wants all of the foreigners out of England, and doesn't care how that happens. B doesn't believe those same things, isn't a racist. Well, B doesn't think so anyway. However, racist sayings and thoughts creep in and emerge from B's mouth. I thought these themes were just a bit heavy-handed, but I was really glad to see that there was substance to the book, not just gore.

As promised, there is horror galore. The zombies are creepy, with bones spurting from everywhere and the ease with which they can infect. Ugh. There's plenty of brain-chewing to keep the zombie-enthusiasts pleased. Most disgusting and horrifying scene for me was most definitely B's dream about zombie babies on an airplane. Glad to know I'm not the only one terrified by babies. *shudders*

Zom-B offers all the gore its creepy cover promises. You want kids trapped in a school with hungry zombies and plenty of death? You got it. Also, expect twists that you probably won't see coming. Shan certainly surprised me....more

I've never read a Darren Shan book, but everything I heard about him is positive, so as soon as I saw Zom-B, I had to buy it. A zombie book written by an author with an excellent reputation, set in the UK? Yep, I was hooked in.

Zom-B is a quick read, taking me just over two hours to get through, and definitely has a one-more-chapter feeling. There are also some awesome illustrations throughout the book, which I wasn't expecting but added an extra touch to the story.

Zom-B begins with the story ofI've never read a Darren Shan book, but everything I heard about him is positive, so as soon as I saw Zom-B, I had to buy it. A zombie book written by an author with an excellent reputation, set in the UK? Yep, I was hooked in.

Zom-B is a quick read, taking me just over two hours to get through, and definitely has a one-more-chapter feeling. There are also some awesome illustrations throughout the book, which I wasn't expecting but added an extra touch to the story.

Zom-B begins with the story of a zombie outbreak in Ireland, which is initally laughed off by B, the main character of the book, and B's friends.

B is a fantastic character with a tough background. An abusive, racist and possibly alcoholic father, a hen-pecked mother and a bunch of friends that enjoy terrorising local shop-keepers and their teachers, although there's a lot to dislike about B, I couldn't help but feeling sympathetic - Zom-B really shows just how your upbringing can shape your attitude and actions in life, and it all felt incredibly realistic.

The zombie action doesn't start until more than half-way through the book, which would normally have disappointed me, but that's not the case here - there was so much going on with B that I actually didn't mind at all, and started to suspect that maybe this was a zombie story in name only. Rest assured, there are zombies, and when they do arrive things go to shit pretty fast, and in a very gory fashion.

I love reading books set in the UK - to me the language and setting is very familiar and I love the quirks of the English, which have come through very well in Darren Shan's writing. The writing is perfect for a teenage and adult audience - it's fast, straightforward and yet incredibly entertaining.

Zom-B ends on a huge, and quite shocking, cliffhanger but as part of a 12 part series, the next book is scheduled for publication in 2013, so there's not a long wait to see just what Darren Shan can dream up next.

Darren Shan always has a way with making characters unlike anything we've ever seen and wonderfully realistically too.

This first book in his Zom-B series has his classic breakneck pacing and mass of plot twists and turns while introducing new elements that separate it from his older series. And I can appreciate the inventiveness and the interest of this badass MC, I cannot say this is his best start to a series. Particularly because so much of this tiny book was spent on things that are subplotDarren Shan always has a way with making characters unlike anything we've ever seen and wonderfully realistically too.

This first book in his Zom-B series has his classic breakneck pacing and mass of plot twists and turns while introducing new elements that separate it from his older series. And I can appreciate the inventiveness and the interest of this badass MC, I cannot say this is his best start to a series. Particularly because so much of this tiny book was spent on things that are subplot to the main story which would have been workable had it been more balanced or expanded.

It's still a super good book, however, and definitely worth the read for any Darren Shan fan. Totally recommended.

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
click here.First paragraph:THEN…It was the darkest, most wretched hour of the night when the dead came back to life and spread like a plague of monstrous locusts through the village of Pallaskenry. The luckier victims were slaughtered in their sleep, their skulls ripped open, their brains devoured. The others suffered a far more terrible fate.

I've been fortunate enough to pick up a string of really good books lately. "Zom-B" by Darren Shan is no exception. Despite its designation as a young adult book, thiFirst paragraph:THEN…It was the darkest, most wretched hour of the night when the dead came back to life and spread like a plague of monstrous locusts through the village of Pallaskenry. The luckier victims were slaughtered in their sleep, their skulls ripped open, their brains devoured. The others suffered a far more terrible fate.

I've been fortunate enough to pick up a string of really good books lately. "Zom-B" by Darren Shan is no exception. Despite its designation as a young adult book, this book has some majorly mature themes, particularly those revolving around B's upbringing and her racist father. There are definitely some squirm-worthy moments in this book, particularly when the monsters are human.

Surprises abound in this book, starting from the very first chapter and the zombie outbreak in a little town in Ireland. The deliberate obfuscation (can I use that word here without sounding pretentious?) of B's gender until nearly the ending of the book had me sitting up and recalling all of the earlier character interactions within. I won't belabor the point, but it was well done, and says much of B as a character. I'm glad she wasn't in my high school, that's for sure.

Of course, the book ends on a cliffhanger, so I'm off to devour the second in this series....more

Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of The Demonata series, as well as some stand-alone books, and a series oLibrarian's note: Also writes under the name D.B. Shan.

Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of The Demonata series, as well as some stand-alone books, and a series of books for adults under the alternative name of D.B. Shan. ...more